Automatic vs. Manual Transmission in Pre-Owned Maruti Suzuki Ignis: Which is the Most Popular?

Buying a used car is complex enough already. You need to weigh your options carefully, and only once you’ve considered everything can you finalise one. But, when automatic and manual transmission get thrown into the mix, things get a bit more complicated. 

Suppose, you’ve already made up your mind about buying a used Maruti Suzuki Ignis, the sub-four-metre hatchback with a distinct look and a decent mileage of about 20kmpl. You find two options priced slightly apart, one is automatic and the other is manual. How do you choose? To make this decision easier for you, we will compare the two versions, analyse the pros and cons of each, and identify which one is more popular in the Indian used car market.

Maruti Suzuki Ignis Overview

The Maruti Suzuki Ignis, which was introduced in 2017, is distinctive in its tall-boy stance, sharp front, and quirky design accents. Apart from the 1197cc petrol engine, it has manual (5-speed) and automatic (5-speed AMT) gearbox options.

If you are a new buyer, need a compact car to commute regularly, or are just looking for something small and stylish, the Ignis is definitely a car that deserves your attention.

Pros and Cons of Buying a Manual Maruti Suzuki Ignis

Let's start with the manual version. This version features a 5-speed transmission, providing greater control over driving.

Pros of the Manual Ignis:

• More control over gear changing: Ideal if you prefer having complete control over shifting of gears.
• More fuel-efficient: Marginally improved fuel economy in real driving situations.
• Lower cost of purchase: Used manual Ignis variants are typically ₹30,000–₹50,000 cheaper than their AMT counterparts of the same year and condition. 
• Lower maintenance expense: With fewer complex components (no actuators, sensors, or clutch control modules), manual transmissions generally cost less to maintain. 

Cons of the Manual Ignis:

• Tiredness in city traffic, particularly in cities such as Bangalore or Mumbai.
• A major learning curve for beginners. Manuals are not the most user-friendly option for beginners.

Best For

• Car enthusiasts who always want to stay in control and connected with their car.
• People who spend a lot of time driving on freeways, or those looking for an affordable option mileage-wise.

Pros and Cons of Buying an Automatic Maruti Suzuki Ignis

The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) version of the Ignis is all about comfort. It is the same manual gearbox; only the clutch and gear change are automated.

Pros of the Automatic Ignis:

• Hassle-free driving in traffic: No clutch, no gear shifting.
• Simple to drive: Even for new and experienced drivers.
• Smooth Ride: Comfortable and smooth ride quality on city roads.

Cons of the Automatic Ignis:

• Gear jerks at times, particularly in crawling traffic at low speeds.
• Slightly pricier in the used car market.
• Noticeable response lag compared to a manual.

Ideal For:

• People living in crowded cities
• Beginner car buyers
• People making the transition from two-wheelers
• Anyone who wants something easy to drive.

Which Transmission Is More Popular in the Used Car Market?

Now comes the most common and important question: Which model is being sold more in the second hand market – the automatic or the manual Ignis? Well, the manual remains the fan favourite, but the automatic is gaining popularity at a very fast rate.

Let's analyse it with some hard facts:

1. Availability

Manual Ignis models are comparatively more available in the used car segment. The reason is that the earlier years (2017-2019) witnessed higher sales of manual variants, considering the price-conscious Indian buyer.

Nonetheless, from 2020 onwards, demand for the automatic Ignis has gone up steeply, especially in urban cities. With the growing number of urban users and first-time users entering the market, the AMT variant is gaining traction.

2. Buyer Preferences Are Changing

Earlier, many people weren't really familiar with automatic transmissions. However, nowadays, millennials, working couples, and even small families are attracted to the convenience offered by automatic transmission. In contrast, small-town buyers or first-time "value car" buyers often prefer the manual variant due to its lower running costs.

3. Price Difference

In the second hand car market, the difference in price between an automatic and a manual Ignis (same model year, same age) will be ₹25,000 to ₹50,000. It is not that much when you consider the benefit of never having to press down a clutch pedal through morning rush-hour traffic.

4. Resale Value

To everyone's surprise, automatic Ignis models have much better resale value. When demand increases, sellers can command premium resale prices for the AMT variant, even more than manuals in metropolitan cities at times.

Which One to Buy?

Here's the simple decision-making formula:

Final Verdict: Manual or Automatic Ignis?

In terms of general observation and market availability, the manual Ignis still reigns supreme in the pre owned market due to its high popularity and price sensitivity. But if we're talking about what's gaining popularity fastest, the automatic Ignis is the rising star, especially in cities where convenience often wins over control.

So, really, it's less about "which one is better" and more about "which one suits your lifestyle better." A used Maruti Suzuki Ignis is a good buy if you’re after something quirky, useful, economical to run, and full of character. The transmission you pick needs to suit your driving style, your pocket, and your comfort. Just remember: convenience is key when dealing with today's traffic, which is why automatics are so popular. But if you enjoy driving, shifting gears, and saving money, manuals are still the best.